Façade van een villa in Parijs, ontworpen door René-Michel-Ferdinand Gaillard before 1880

This is a photograph by Lampué et Cie, depicting the façade of a villa in Paris designed by René-Michel-Ferdinand Gaillard. In late 19th century Paris, architecture became a powerful display of social identity and class. The design of private villas, like this one, reflected the owner's status and taste, often drawing from historical styles to evoke a sense of timeless elegance and authority. Yet, who gets to decide what elegance looks like? Who is this villa for, and who is excluded from its promise? The image itself, captured by Lampué et Cie, invites us to consider the role of photography in constructing and circulating these ideals of luxury and aspiration. How does viewing this villa make you feel? Do you see it as a symbol of Parisian grandeur, or as a symbol of social division?